The Best Free and Paid Tools for Developers in 2025

With 7-8 years of experience as a software engineer, I have explored various free and paid tools to enhance productivity. As developers, we should always be eager to learn new technologies and improve our development workflow.

1. Best Free & Paid IDEs

Free IDEs

1.1. Visual Studio Code (VS Code)

• Lightweight, feature-rich IDE with extensive extension support.
• Key Features: IntelliSense, Git integration, debugging tools, built-in terminal.
• Best For: Web development, Python, JavaScript, AI development.
• Download VS Code

1.2. JetBrains Fleet

• Lightweight alternative to JetBrains' premium IDEs.
• Key Features: AI-assisted code completion, collaboration tools, cloud support.
• Best For: Developers looking for an AI-powered smart IDE.
• Download JetBrains Fleet

Paid IDEs

1.3. JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA (Ultimate) – $149/year

• Powerful IDE for Java and Kotlin developers.
• Key Features: Deep code analysis, refactoring tools, advanced debugging.
• Best For: Java, Kotlin, and enterprise development.
• Download IntelliJ IDEA

2. Best Error Monitoring Tools

2.1. Jet Logger

• A Node.js error logging package.
• Key Features: Supports multiple logging levels like info, warn, important, and error.
• Best For: Node.js developers.
• Install Jet Logger

2.2. Datadog APM – Starts at $31/host/month

• Cloud-based error monitoring and performance tracking tool.
• Key Features: Crash reporting, real-user monitoring, API tracking.
• Best For: Mobile and web developers optimizing application performance.
• Learn More About Datadog

3. AI Tools for Auto Code Completion & Refactoring

3.1. Codeium – Free Version Available

• A free AI-powered coding assistant.
• Key Features: Supports 70+ programming languages.
• Best For: Developers looking for a free AI coding assistant.
• Try Codeium

Quick Recommendations

• Best Free IDE for All-Round Development: VS Code
• Best Paid Suite for Enterprises: GitHub Copilot + Datadog
• Best Free AI Auto Code Completion: Codeium